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No one wants to hear that they they have a cavity. Cavities can be inconvenient, painful and depending on where they are, they can be unsightly. And if you ignore a cavity, the pain will only get worse, and the damage to your tooth will only increase. Ultimately, you could experience severe dental problems that may require a root canal or an extraction.

Tooth decay occurs when the enamel of your teeth is compromised. Enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, but it is still vulnerable to erosion from acid. That acid is found in the things you eat and drink, and the bacteria in the plaque on your teeth will work with the sugar in your food to create acid. Over time, the acid erodes the enamel, which is also known as tooth decay. You can help prevent cavities through three ways. The first is to limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks. The second thing you can do is to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day. Finally, you should see our dentist, Dr. Peter Lo Destro, for your cleanings and exams. The cleaning will remove the plaque from your teeth. During the exam, the dentist will check for problems, including cavities. This is important, since in the earliest stages, tooth decay may even be reversed. When it decay initially sets in, there may be no obvious signs. However, if you notice a change in the color or texture of your tooth, you should schedule an appointment right away.

One of the most effective ways to repair a tooth with a cavity is with a composite, or tooth-colored filling. With advancements in dental technology, composite fillings have become just as strong as amalgam fillings. They have become popular for several reasons. First, they do not require as much drilling as other types of fillings since the composite resin shapes itself to the hole in your tooth. Second, many people have become concerned about the presence of mercury in amalgam fillings, and tooth-colored fillings are a mixture of powdered glass and composite resin. Third, they bond directly to the surface of the tooth. Of course, the biggest reason for the popularity of composite fillings is because they can be shaded to match the rest of your tooth, making them virtually unnoticeable to anyone else. Hence the name: tooth-colored fillings.

After the dentist has removed the decayed material from your tooth, he will mix the composite so that it is the same shade of your tooth. A composite filling takes longer to place than other fillings, since it is placed in layers, and the individual layer of composite needs to be cured before the next one can be applied. When the last layer has been cured, the dentist will polish your filling to give it a little extra strength and to help it blend in with the rest of your tooth. Remember that composite fillings can be stained over time, so you need to keep that in mind when you are planning your meals.

If you have a tooth that needs some attention in the Yorkville and Aurora, Illinois areas, we can help at Peter Lo Destro DDS PC. If you would like to make an appointment for an exam, call 630-553-3222 today. We’re looking forward to seeing you soon and to helping you enjoy a brand new smile!